4x4 147 not for UK

Alfa Romeo is continuing to test its forthcoming all-wheel drive 147 ahead its arrival late this year, although the Italians have confirmed the jacked-up hatch won’t be built in right-hand-drive form, wiping out the possibility of a UK launch.

The 147 uses the same system as its bigger brother, the 156 Crosswagon, with permanent four-wheel drive and central Torsen diff varying torque between axles as required. At launch the car should be offered with the 150bhp 1.9 JTD engine.

British buyers will, however, be offered a revised 147 range next spring, with new front-end styling bringing the car in line with the rest of the Alfa range.